Islam: Arab League-EU-AU speak against religious hatred

In statement against violence calling for freedom of expression

(ANSAmed) - CAIRO, SEPTEMBER 21 - In a joint statement issued
today, the Arab League, African union, European union and
Organization of the Islamic Conference condemned religious
hatred and called for the respect of the freedom of expression
along with the respects for all prophets. The statement
condemned recent violence following a film and cartoons mocking
Prophet Mohammed and its engagement in promoting anti-blasphemy
measures.

"We are united in the conviction of the fundamental
importance of religious freedom and tolerance', said in a joint
note Arab League Secretary General Nabil al Araby, the EU's High
Representative for Foreign Affairs Catherine Ashton, the leader
of the Organization of the Islamic Conference (OIC) Ekmeleddin
Ihsanoglu and Ramtane Lamamra, the head of the African Union's
Peace and Security Council. The statement was issued on the eve
of Friday prayers at which authorities fear violent protests
following a US-produced film and the publication by French
satirical magazine Charlie Hebdo of cartoons both mocking
Prophet Mohammed.

"The anguish felt by Muslims over the production and posting
on the internet of a film insulting the prophet and similar acts
is shared by all people and communities who reject the use of
religion to fuel provocation, conflict and extremism", said the
statement. "We know that the behavior of small groups does not
represent more extended communities but the damage they cause
can be considerable. We must act so that recent events do not
undermine the relationship of confidence and respect we have
built in all these years".

In condemning recent violence, the four leaders also said
that the international community cannot be held hostage by
extremists. "It is not possible to respond to offensive language
with violence because this only creates a spiral of brutality
which will damage all", the statement also said. "Reason must
prevail and this is why we are asking for an end to violence
wherever it takes place".

The note also stressed the organizations' engagement in
promoting anti-blasphemy measures within a UN resolution on
human rights and called on religious leaders to promote
dialogue. 'The only response to dark intolerance and ignorance
is the light of respect, tolerance and dialogue', concluded the
note.(ANSAmed).